The New York Mets said Tuesday they have exercised the club option and re-signed Japanese outfielder Tsuyoshi Shinjo for the 2002 season for $1.35 million, up from $200,000 this season.
"We are excited to have Shinjo return for another season," Mets general manager Steve Phillips said.
"Tsuyoshi was a valuable contributor to our team last year with his clutch hitting and splendid defense," Phillips said.
Shinjo, 29, posted a .268 batting average with 23 doubles, one triple, 10 home runs and 56 RBIs in 118 games in his first season in the major leagues.
"I just hope that next year I can help the club reach the postseason," said Shinjo, the other Japanese position player in the majors, along with Ichiro Suzuki of the Seattle Mariners.
Shinjo finished the season ranked fifth in the National League with 12 outfield assists.